Pronunciation: [skˈɛptɪkə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "sceptical" is often misspelled as "skeptical". However, the correct spelling in British English is "sceptical". This word refers to being doubtful or unsure about something. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈskep.tɪ.kəl/. It begins with a stressed syllable "skep", followed by an unstressed syllable "tɪ", and ends with an unstressed syllable "kəl". The "c" in this word is pronounced as "k", not "s".
Skeptical, also spelled as sceptical, is an adjective derived from the noun "skepticism." It refers to a state of questioning or having doubt about the accuracy, validity, or truthfulness of something. When someone is skeptical, they tend to approach information, claims, or situations with a critical mindset, requiring evidence or convincing arguments to be fully convinced or accept them as true.
A skeptical individual is inclined to question assumptions, challenge conclusions, and seek alternative explanations. They may demonstrate a healthy degree of distrust towards claims that lack sufficient evidence or appear too good to be true. Skepticism can be observed in various domains, such as science, philosophy, and everyday life.
In many cases, skepticism is an intellectual attitude that encourages rational inquiry and evidence-based reasoning. Skeptical thinking promotes a cautious approach towards new ideas or claims, emphasizing the importance of critical analysis, validation, and constant re-evaluation.
However, skepticism is not synonymous with outright denial or close-mindedness. Skeptics are open to reconsidering their viewpoints and beliefs when presented with compelling evidence or logical arguments. The skepticism, therefore, serves as a tool for better scrutinizing and understanding the world around us, ultimately leading to well-informed opinions and more robust knowledge acquisition.
Doubting or hesitating to admit the certainty of doctrines or principles; unbelieving.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "skeptical" comes from the Latin term "scepticus", which derives from the Greek word "skeptikos". In ancient Greek philosophy, a "skeptikos" referred to someone who was inclined to inquire or examine thoroughly before making judgments or forming beliefs. The term is derived from the Greek verb "skeptomai", meaning "to consider, survey, or look around". Over time, the word evolved and entered the English language as "sceptical", retaining its original meaning of questioning or doubting.
